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Fairytale of Kathmandu

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Description:

Fairytale of Kathmandu is a quietly explosive documentary that unfolds against the breathtaking backdrop of the Nepalese landscape. The film takes the viewer on an emotional and controversial journey to the heart of one man's struggle for a happily ever after.

Crippled for years by a broken heart, openly gay Irish poet Cathal O'Searcaigh finds solace and recovery on his first trip to Nepal. Developing an immediate attachment to the culture and community, he feels more at home on the streets of Kathmandu than in his own native Ireland. It is in Kathmandu that Cathal cures his loneliness in the company of numerous young Nepalese students What begins as a glorifying portrait of the Irish poet's life and work quickly transforms into something completely different when director Neasa N' Chian'in is invited to join her subject on one of Cathal's annual trips to Kathmandu.

Upon their arrival, Cathal is instantly surrounded by young men eager to aid him in his travel and daily routines. Over time, Cathal has helped them build their now-fruitful lives, and the men are keen to return the favour. Whether with clothes, a new bike or money to help pay for their studies, Cathal's generosity toward his many companions shows no bounds. But as familiar faces are replaced by those of dozens of young boys, N' Chian'in begins to question the true intentions of her beloved bard.

Forced to open her eyes to the possibility that Cathal's relationship with these boys may not be as selfless as he originally projected, N' Chian'in begins to dig deeper into her poet's past and discovers some shocking truths about the many friendships he has developed during his visits to Kathmandu. What will he have to say when our filmmaker returns to Ireland to confront him face to face?

CANADIAN PREMIERE